YORK residents are being urged to "Be Brave - be a lion" and join the fight against crime and disorder on the city's streets.

Community leaders are asking people to step forward with information that can be used as ammunition in the battle against antisocial behaviour.

Senior police officers want lionhearted members of the public to contact them, or other groups, and improve the city's environment for everyone.

They stress that vital information can be passed on anonymously and without fear of reprisal.

Jane Mowat, of Safer York Partnership, said: "Turning a blind eye is not the solution and offers no promise of change. We are calling for united action. Residents should not live in fear and accept the unacceptable, because there is a risk that this then becomes the norm.

"Communities know what goes on in their neighbourhoods, and often know who the perpetrators are. This campaign is designed to invite residents to make a positive contribution to the quality of life in their area from a position of safety."

To mark the launch a pride of "lions" was hitting the centre of York today to hand out leaflets giving details of telephone numbers and contacts. The numbers give residents and visitors the opportunity to report crimes, disorder and nuisance from urgent matters to vandalism and dumping.

Chief Inspector Howard Harding, of York Police, said: "We cannot act when we do not have information, which is frustrating, as it is often just a few individuals who tyrannise entire neighbourhoods. North Yorkshire Police cannot do it alone. The co-operation of residents is essential if we are to preserve York as a safe and vibrant city, and dispense justice to those whose actions create a wide ripple effect."

City of York Council leader, Steve Galloway, said the "Be Brave" campaign complements York Pride, a drive to urge residents to take pride in the city.

He said: "This is not just about hard-core crime, as it is not only persistent offenders who impact on the quality of life.It is equally about the things that are relatively minor when considered in isolation, but which add up to a great many people feeling threatened."

Who to call:

If you need an immediate emergency response always dial 999.

For non-urgent police matters and community policing phone 01904 631321

Report crimes, for free and anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

To tackle graffiti, abandoned vehicles and litter, call City of York Council on 01904 551551

Complain about noise by phoning 01904 551591

Updated: 10:30 Monday, December 01, 2003